Monday, September 21, 2015

5 Strategies to be Well Read

Do you ever notice successful people when interviewed often share how they read wide and deep? Some people quote favorite books, leaders and share how other’s story has inspired them.

Some of the most significant and ah-mazing leaders I know are well read and constantly review information to keep their leadership current and relevant.

Here are five of my favorite strategies to be well read:

Read Biographies – I am currently enjoying Elon Musk which shares his adventures with SpaceX, Tesla and Solar City. I believe he is a modern day genius and admire his brilliant mind. Stories of others success always inspire me.

Read executive summaries – so many services are available that provide cliff notes of significant books, maybe that’s a great solution if you don’t have huge amounts of time to read (or maybe you don’t enjoy it)?

Ask for recommendations – my friends and colleagues are a great source of inspiration and I’m constantly asking what they are reading and why. Can you ask around of those you admire what they are reading right now?

Reading allows you to enter other worlds, increase creativity and grow imagination, learn new skills, remind you of information you know and strengthens your leadership style.

Today as a leader, could you squeeze in a little more time for reading and a little less time for distractions?

You will have more impact and influence at work, at home and in your community when you choose to be ah-mazing!